Joann S. Harton

Joann Simms Harton, 72, of Jeffersonville, Indiana, passed away on September 7, 2020, of complication relating to dementia.  Joann was born on September 15, 1947, to David Simms and Susie A. Mukes Majors in Louisville, KY.  Joann remained near Louisville, KY to raise her family in Jeffersonville, IN.  She was a devoted mother, daughter, sister, aunt and friend.  Joann was a doting grandmother and great grandmother who would often be found supporting her grandchildren in one of their endeavors, no matter how far she had to travel, with a gift in hand.  She will be sorely missed by many.

A life-long learner, Joann prided herself on new experiences, including traveling to places around the world. She attended classes at Indiana University-Southeast where she joined new clubs and activities of interest.  With her engaging personality and openness of heart, she easily made new friends, whether in was in Jeffersonville, Indiana or on the streets of Europe.  Joann never met a stranger and was quick to offer a kind word.

Joann retired after more than 20 years of service for the Commonwealth of Kentucky, as an Administrative Specialist with the Labor Cabinet-Division of Workers’ Compensation Funds Payment Unit.  She was routinely commended for her exceptional performance.  Her legal secretarial skills were legendary and her work was once even mistaken for that of a lawyer, which amused her to no end.

 Additionally, she joined the United States Navy Reserves in 1986 and proudly served until her 2006 retirement. Joann served as a Cryptologic Technician Administrator First Class.

Joann was preceded in death by her parents, Susie and David. 

She is survived by her sons, Donald Mitchem Jr (Haide Lobo), Joel Mitchem, Readus Harton III and Corey Harton (Oni Sharp); sisters, Diann Mukes (Randall Butler), Wendy Simms and Clarissa Simms; brother, Gary Owens and a host of grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Visitation will be Saturday, September 12, 2020, at Scott Funeral Home, 2515 Veterans Parkway, Jefferson, IN from 10am-12pm with a celebration of Joann’s life beginning at 12pm.

She will be laid to rest at Eastern Cemetery, 726 Graham Street, Jeffersonville, IN.

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